Amid US ceasefire efforts, Hamas' decision rests on Izz al-Din al-Haddad, the new Gaza chief, succeeding Mohammed Sinwar. Al-Haddad, a key planner of the October 7 attack, opposes Israeli efforts to remove Hamas. He insists on an "honorable deal" or a "war of liberation or martyrdom.
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British Foreign Secretary David Lammy met with Syria's interim president, Ahmad al-Sharaa, in Damascus, marking the restoration of formal ties after 14 years. The UK pledged £94.5 million in aid for emergency relief, education, and livelihood projects.
In a late-night session, the Senate advanced President Trump's One Big Beautiful Bill Act, despite opposition from Republican senators Tillis, Paul, and initially Johnson. The bill, featuring tax breaks and national security funding, faces criticism for Medicaid cuts and increased debt. Trump hailed the procedural clearance as a victory, thanking supportive Republican senators.
Chinese President Xi Jinping will not attend the BRICS Summit in Brazil, fueling speculation about internal political shifts. Premier Li Qiang will lead the delegation instead, while Vladimir Putin will participate via video link. Narendra Modi's attendance and state visit position India as a central figure in the summit, where Brics aims to enhance its representation of the Global South.
The White House declared that Canada's Prime Minister Mark Carney yielded to President Trump's pressure by withdrawing a digital services tax targeting American tech companies, which had halted trade discussions. Karoline Leavitt stated that Trump's negotiation skills led to Canada's decision. Tensions rose after Trump suggested Canada should become the 51st state.
A climate change mission suffered a setback as the $88 million MethaneSAT, backed by Jeff Bezos and New Zealand, has disappeared in space. Designed to monitor greenhouse gas emissions, the satellite encountered technical issues and stopped responding.
The UAE has become the top choice for content creators in the MENA region, with 45% favoring it due to its creative opportunities and photogenic environment. The GCC region is experiencing strong growth in travel and tourism, driving momentum in the content creation space. Influencers are increasingly adopting AI tools and focusing on authenticity and community-building.
Paris has been hit by severe thunderstorms and heavy rain since Wednesday, causing widespread flooding and damage. A viral video showed the Eiffel Tower illuminated amidst floodwaters as people sought shelter. Tragically, a 12-year-old boy and a 59-year-old motorcyclist died due to the storm's impact, with emergency responders handling over 300 calls and conducting numerous rescues.
A three-bus collision at New York City's Port Authority Bus Terminal during the morning rush hour injured at least twelve people, causing significant traffic disruptions. The incident, involving New Jersey Transit buses on the fourth-level entrance ramp, led to temporary service suspensions and ramp closures. Authorities are investigating the cause, with a possible medical emergency for one driver being considered.
A suicide attack, claimed by the Pakistani Taliban, targeted a military convoy in North Waziristan, resulting in the deaths of 16 soldiers and injuries to over two dozen individuals, including civilians. The bomber used an explosive-laden vehicle, causing significant damage and casualties.